semblance
noun
sem·blance
ˈsem-blən(t)s 
1
2
3
a
: a phantasmal form : apparition
4
: actual or apparent resemblance
her story bears some semblance to the truth
Examples of semblance in a Sentence
tried to project some semblance of confidence even though public speaking terrified her
a used-car dealer with only a semblance of honesty
Recent Examples on the Web
And while a 14-5 Duke run after halftime seemed to erase any semblance that this would wind up a close contest, that foul trouble once again reared its head late.
—
Brendan Marks, New York Times, 28 Mar. 2025
Without any semblance of reciprocity, the relationship deteriorated.
—Michael B. G. Froman, Foreign Affairs, 25 Mar. 2025
The intent, the artist said, was to afford its spirit a semblance of privacy.
—Tessa Solomon, ARTnews.com, 25 Mar. 2025
While many criticisms can be made about legal decisions, the fundamental principles of a legal system provides protection for all, provides for a strong economy where companies and people can operate with a semblance of order and that system ultimately makes our country strong.
—Daniel R. Depetris, Newsweek, 25 Mar. 2025
See All Example Sentences for semblance
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to
show current usage.
Read More
Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors.
Send us feedback.
Brendan Marks, New York Times, 28 Mar. 2025
Without any semblance of reciprocity, the relationship deteriorated.
—Michael B. G. Froman, Foreign Affairs, 25 Mar. 2025
The intent, the artist said, was to afford its spirit a semblance of privacy.
—Tessa Solomon, ARTnews.com, 25 Mar. 2025
While many criticisms can be made about legal decisions, the fundamental principles of a legal system provides protection for all, provides for a strong economy where companies and people can operate with a semblance of order and that system ultimately makes our country strong.
—Daniel R. Depetris, Newsweek, 25 Mar. 2025
See All Example Sentences for semblance
Cite this Entry
“Semblance.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/semblance. Accessed 13 Apr. 2025.
Copy CitationKids Definition
semblance
noun
sem·blance
ˈsem-blən(t)s
Love words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share